Franken: Kagans Confirmation To Supreme Court Is A Victory For Minnesotans

Today, the U.S. Senate voted 63-37 to confirm Solicitor General Elena Kagan as the newest Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Sen. Franken presided over the vote; he also presided over the vote to confirm Justice Sotomayor.

Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) made the following statement upon Justice Kagan's confirmation:

"Throughout her confirmation process, Solicitor General Elena Kagan has proven that she understands how the Supreme Court directly impacts the lives of the Minnesotans and Americans it was created to serve. She has also proven she understands the Court's obligation to the Congress that represents those citizens.

"I believe that she will continue a longstanding tradition of protecting and serving the American people with equal justice under law. I congratulate her and consider her appointment as a victory in preserving the values we hold dear in Minnesota."

Justice Kagan will replace retired Justice John Paul Stevens. Justice Stevens served on the Court from 1975 until this June. Justice Kagan will be the fourth woman to serve as a Supreme Court justice; she will be the third woman presently serving on the Court.